Boston celebrates First Night, the arts

BOSTON (WHDH) -- Boston’s First Night is a celebration of the arts as well as the New Year. Boston was ready for an estimated one million people taking part in Boston’s First Night celebration.

First Night Boston started 37 years ago and it is one of the oldest and largest New Year's Eve celebrations in the country.

"First Night really is a celebration of community and diversity through the arts and I think to that end, the whole range of programming is pretty incredible. There really is something for everyone," said Geri Guardino, First Night Executive Director.

This year's celebration features over 1,000 artists and 200 performances at 35 venues around Boston.

First night festivities in Boston officially begin at 5:30 p.m., with the Grand Procession from the Hynes Convention Center to the Common.

A skating spectacular will take place at the Frog Pond at six o'clock.

Ice sculptures will be on display at Copley and the Prudential throughout the day and night. One, titled ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’, depicts divers under water in the Great Barrier reef in Australia. It weighs between 35 and 45 tons. The Prudential is a new location for ice sculpture for First Night.

At midnight, Boston will ring in 2013 with a fireworks display over Boston Harbor.

Dress for the elements, but keep in mind that in addition to outdoor events, there are also plenty of indoor events. The outdoor activities are free, but to see the indoor activities, you will need to buy a first night button.

The button is available at numerous locations throughout the area.

Those who want to join in for Boston’s First Night are urged to take public transportation. The T is free on New Year’s Eve after 8 p.m.